Programs

Recurring Programs

AACSA Open Library

As a FIRST 5–funded Family Resource Center, AACSA’s Open Library program demonstrates the critical role that storytelling plays in early childhood development. These sessions not only support early literacy and language development, but also foster meaningful community engagement for families with young children.Launched in 2024, the Open Library program features Black leaders, authors, and community members reading to children. To date, AACSA has engaged over 100 children and families and welcomed multiple guest readers, including Reyna Harvey of KRON4 News and Dr. David Toston, the first Black Superintendent of Santa Clara County. These experiences allow children to see adults who look like them and to engage with books that reflect their identities and lived experiences.As AACSA recently became the third California village recognized by the National Black Child Development Institute, the Open Library program intentionally advances the Institute’s essential outcome that children have books and toys that reflect who they are and who they can become. Participation from community partners and leaders in this space creates powerful, affirming, and inspirational moments for the children and families AACSA serves.

AACSA Family Health Plan – Dance Class

An experience and partnership with El Camino Health that moves your body, lifts your spirit, and connects you with the community. Dancing isn’t just fun, it’s powerful for your health and well-being. It improves strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular fitness, while relieving stress, boosting mood, and building confidence. Dance also strengthens memory, encourages teamwork, celebrates diverse cultures, and brings pure joy through movement and music.

STEAM on Saturdays

STEAM on Saturdays is a hands-on, creative program designed to introduce youth to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) through the innovation of LEGO Robotics. Students learn how to build, program, and problem-solve in a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and teamwork.

Senior Citizens Connected

The Senior Citizens Connected program is a digital literacy class for adults 55+ to get connected and educated about new technology. Program participants learn basic to intermediate computer skills, including email, internet safety, digital stories, using smartphones, photography, video, and other useful topics.

AACSA Food on the Table

Food on the Table is a biweekly program hosted by AACSA in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank. This initiative provides food boxes filled with essential groceries to more than 5,000 households annually, including families with children. Each box contains fresh vegetables, fruits, milk, bread, juice, chicken, and other staples, ensuring consistent access to healthy, nourishing food. By meeting immediate needs, the program directly supports food security and wellness for families across the region.

AACSA Family Health Plan – Cooking Demonstration Class

AACSA hosts a monthly healthy cooking demonstration in partnership with El Camino Health, where community members learn healthier ways to prepare traditional soul food while maintaining cultural flavors and practices. The sessions provide hands-on cooking education and highlight the connection between nutrition and overall health and wellness. Sessions also address health topics such as Diabetes and Obesity Awareness, including the importance of blood sugar regulation and how food choices can impact overall health and well-being.

Workforce Development

AACSA Leadership Academy (ALA)

AACSA’s Leadership Academy (ALA) is a year-long leadership and workforce development program serving high school and college students. ALA provides mentorship, college and career preparation, leadership development, AI and technology education, civic engagement, internships, scholarships, professional development, and direct exposure to career pathways.

AI Show & Tell

AACSA’s AI Show & Tell is an interactive community event designed to introduce students, families, and community members to artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. The event provides hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to explore how AI is shaping education, careers, and the future of work. Participants can experience AI tools, robotics, virtual reality, expert-led discussions, hands-on learning stations, and career development opportunities. AI Show & Tell is open to everyone, and no prior AI experience is required. The goal is to make AI accessible, engaging, and understandable while helping the community explore the opportunities and possibilities of emerging technology.

Signature Events

 Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon

The Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon observes the birthday of legendary civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A community event hosted since 1980, the annual luncheon commemorates and honors the life and legacy of Dr. King and  highlights various members of the local community and beyond who have contributed to the service of others. The MLK Luncheon unites a combination of community and trade organizations, corporations, philanthropists, and students for a one-of-a-kind event.

Juneteenth in the Streets Festival

The Juneteenth in the Streets Festival is the oldest African American cultural festival celebrating the end of slavery. Demonstrating the strength of a united African American community, the festival economically supports and displays the creativity of African American artists, entertainers, and entrepreneurs. Additionally, it economically supports and educates the African American community and the community at large about the significant contributions made by African Americans locally and abroad.

Annual Black History Month

A February celebration. Check back soon.

Annual Back to School

Check back soon.

Gala (5 Year Cycle)

AACSA’s five-year gala celebrates the agency’s journey of service and the resilience and dedication of its team members. It honors impactful community members, corporate sponsors, living legends, volunteers, and elected officials. The next AACSA Gala is coming in 2028.

AACSA Anniversary

Celebrated every April 20. The next anniversary is April 20, 2027.

Membership Informational Luncheon

Every year, the AACSA team hosts the Membership Informational Luncheon to provide updates to donors and members regarding programs and services, membership benefits, renewal information, and how prospective donors can get involved. For more information about our membership levels, visit www.sjaacsa.org/membership.

Thanks in Giving

More than imagined, members of the community struggle to provide meals to their families especially those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. AACSA is here to meet the need, provide both warm and dry goods, and support the community through the Thanks in Giving Program.

Volunteer Appreciation Celebration
Senior Citizens Prom

Our society often overlooks and underestimates the value of senior citizens. In order to pay reverence and show our appreciation, AACSA hosts the Senior Citizens Prom. The event creates the opportunity for the AACSA to partner with the Garden City Women's Club, and local youth leaders, to honor, recognize, and celebrate the Senior members of our community.